17 Feb Breastfeeding Bliss for Mama and Baby

When it comes to your newborn’s nutrition, the American Academy of Pediatrics says that “breastfeeding is the optimal source of nutrition through the first year of life.” They recommend exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months, and then gradually adding other food to your baby’s diet after that. For mothers who choose to (and are able to) follow this advice, we rounded up some tips to help you get the most out of this amazing time with your baby.

Make It Easy for Yourself

When it comes to nursing, there are products out there that can make your life a little easier, allowing you to focus on your baby and your special time together. Nursing tops and bras can save you a lot of hassle, and with all the designs and functionalities that are available, it’s relatively easy to find one that fits you and your preferences. Nowadays, you can even find nursing tops that are a two-in-one; you can wear them while you’re pregnant, and then again when you’re nursing.

Try thinking about what would make you comfortable in different situations, like nursing in a car or in public. If you’d like to cover up, you have lots of options when it comes to nursing covers. If you need to give your arms or your back a break, consider using a pillow to prop up your little one. If you’re pumping, they now make hands-free pumping bras so that you can pump while you eat, work on your laptop, read a book…you get the idea.

If You’re Facing a Problem, There’s Probably a Solution

With as magical and amazing as breastfeeding can be, sometimes it just doesn’t go as smoothly as mothers hope for. The good news is that you’re not alone! The internet is an amazing resource for the vast majority of hiccups you might run into while breastfeeding.

The most important part of breastfeeding, however, is getting started, and that is NOT something you should leave to the internet. Hospitals often offer breastfeeding classes, and we highly recommend that you attend one of these classes at the hospital where you’re delivering your baby before your baby is born. Your hospital should be able to give you more information regarding these classes.

Although you’ll begin nursing in the hospital, you’ll need to see a pediatrician within 24–48 hours of being discharged the hospital. During this very important visit, we’ll determine if the baby’s getting enough milk, if they’re latching on properly, and if you have any concerns or questions about nursing. The first few days are crucial for the baby, and as pediatricians, we’re here to make sure that your baby is getting what they need (and that you are, too!).

Like we said earlier, as nursing continues, you’ll probably be able to find a lot of the answers to your questions on the web. Of course, if you’ve looked and haven’t found an answer, or if you’d just feel more comfortable talking to a pediatrician about your concerns, don’t hesitate to call and schedule an appointment immediately.

For more information on the web, visit healthychildren.org. If you have questions or would like to discuss any concerns you have regarding breastfeeding, you can schedule an appointment with me, Dr. Kathryn Mandal, by calling 817-617-8600 or scheduling online at continuumtx.com.